Flash FTB-324-2 User manual

Flash Technology, 332 Nichol Mill Lane, Franklin, TN 37067
[phone]
FTB 324-2, FTB 324-2LT
Medium Intensity Obstruction Lighting System
Reference Manual
Part Number 7913242
SERIAL NUMBER

ii Revision 8 – 2-12-2010 FTB 324-2
Front Matter
Abstract
This manual contains information and instructions for installing, operating and maintaining
the FTB 324-2 Medium Intensity Obstruction Lighting System.
Copyright
Copyright © 2010, Flash Technology®, Franklin, TN, 37067, U.S.A.
All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of any portion of this manual is prohibited without
express written permission from Flash Technology and/or its licenser.
Trademark Acknowledgements
Flash Technology® is a registered trademark name.
ElectroFlash™, Flash Tech™, Flash Technology™, FTCA™, Flash™ and the Flash
Technology Logo are all trademarks of Flash Technology.
All trademarks and product names mentioned are properties of their respective companies,
and are recognized and acknowledged as such by Flash Technology.
Applicable Specifications
This equipment meets or exceeds requirements for an FAA Type L-864 and L-865.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this manual is complete,
accurate and up-to-date, Flash Technology assumes no liability for damages resulting from
any errors or omissions in this manual, or from the use of the information contained herein.
Flash Technology reserves the right to revise this manual without obligation to notify any
person or organization of the revision.
In no event will Flash Technology be liable for direct, indirect, special, incidental, or
consequential damages arising out of the use of or the inability to use this manual.
Warranty
Flash Technology warrants all components, under normal operating conditions, for 2 years.
Parts Replacement
The use of parts or components, in this equipment, not manufactured or supplied by Flash
Technology voids the warranty and invalidates the third party testing laboratory certification
which ensures compliance with FAA Advisory Circulars 150/5345-43F, 150/5345-51 and
150/4345-53C. The certification is valid as long as the system is maintained in accordance
with FAA guidelines (FR doc. 04-13718 filed 6-16-04).

FTB 324-2 Revision 8 – 2-12-2010 iii
Personnel Hazard Warning
Dangerous Voltages
Dangerous line voltages reside in certain locations in this equipment. Also, this equipment
may generate dangerous voltages. Although FTCA has incorporated every practical safety
precaution, exercise extreme caution at all times when you expose circuits and components,
and when you operate, maintain, or service this equipment.
Avoid Touching Live Circuits
Avoid touching any component or any part of the circuitry while the equipment is operating.
Do not change components or make adjustments inside the equipment with power on.
Dangerous Voltages Can Persist with Power Disconnected
Under certain conditions, dangerous voltages can be present because capacitors can retain
charges even after the power has been disconnected.
Protect yourself — always turn off the input (primary) power and wait for one minute for
storage capacitors to drain their charge. Then, check between the red and blue wires on the
flashhead terminal block with a voltmeter for any residual charge before touching any circuit
element or component.
Do Not Depend on Interlocks
Never depend on interlocks alone to remove unsafe voltages. Always check circuits with a
voltmeter. Under no circumstances remove or alter any safety interlock switch.

iv Revision 8 – 2-12-2010 FTB 324-2
Table of Contents
FTB 324-2, FTB 324-2LT .........................................................................................................i
Front Matter..............................................................................................................................ii
Abstract.................................................................................................................................ii
Copyright ..............................................................................................................................ii
Trademark Acknowledgements............................................................................................ii
Applicable Specifications .....................................................................................................ii
Disclaimer.............................................................................................................................ii
Warranty ...............................................................................................................................ii
Parts Replacement.................................................................................................................ii
Personnel Hazard Warning......................................................................................................iii
Dangerous Voltages.............................................................................................................iii
Avoid Touching Live Circuits.............................................................................................iii
Dangerous Voltages Can Persist with Power Disconnected................................................iii
Do Not Depend on Interlocks..............................................................................................iii
Table of Contents.....................................................................................................................iv
List of Figures..........................................................................................................................vi
List of Tables ...........................................................................................................................vi
Section 1 – Introduction and Operation.................................................................................... 1
System................................................................................................................................... 1
Specifications........................................................................................................................ 1
Physical............................................................................................................................. 1
Performance Characteristics ............................................................................................. 1
Operation............................................................................................................................... 1
Alarm Contacts ..................................................................................................................... 3
Photocell ............................................................................................................................... 3
PCB1 Timing and Trigger Board.......................................................................................... 4
Board Configuration ......................................................................................................... 5
Options Switch.................................................................................................................. 5
RS-232 .............................................................................................................................. 7
RES PEC Jumper.............................................................................................................. 7
Trigger Voltage................................................................................................................. 7
Communication LEDs ...................................................................................................... 7
Status LEDs ...................................................................................................................... 8
RS-485 Setup.................................................................................................................... 8
Internal Red Jumper.......................................................................................................... 8
Optional Modem Card .......................................................................................................... 8
Section 2 - Mounting, and Installation...................................................................................... 9
Unpacking............................................................................................................................. 9
Tools ..................................................................................................................................... 9
Access................................................................................................................................... 9
WARNING....................................................................................................................... 9
Power Converter ................................................................................................................... 9
Flashhead .............................................................................................................................. 9
Mounting............................................................................................................................... 9
Power Converter ............................................................................................................... 9

FTB 324-2 Revision 8 – 2-12-2010 v
Flashhead .......................................................................................................................... 9
Photocell ......................................................................................................................... 10
Installation........................................................................................................................... 10
Power Converter Wiring................................................................................................. 10
Flashhead Wiring............................................................................................................ 11
Photocell Wiring............................................................................................................. 11
Installation Checklist ...................................................................................................... 11
Section 3 - Maintenance and Troubleshooting ....................................................................... 23
Safety .................................................................................................................................. 23
Preventive Maintenance...................................................................................................... 23
Storage ................................................................................................................................ 23
Diagnostic Testing.............................................................................................................. 23
Sync Signal Evaluation................................................................................................... 23
RFI Problems.................................................................................................................. 24
Component Testing............................................................................................................. 24
Power Converter ............................................................................................................. 25
Flashhead ........................................................................................................................ 25
Photocell Testing ............................................................................................................ 26
Component Removal and Replacement.............................................................................. 26
Power Converter Components........................................................................................ 26
Flashhead Components................................................................................................... 28
Operational Checkout ......................................................................................................... 29
Manual Override: Fixed Intensities ................................................................................ 31
PCB1 Indicator Lamps.................................................................................................... 31
Standard System.............................................................................................................. 31
Troubleshooting.................................................................................................................. 32
Master Unit ..................................................................................................................... 32
Slave Unit........................................................................................................................ 32
Section 4 – Recommended Spare & Replaceable Parts.......................................................... 37
Customer Service................................................................................................................ 37
Ordering Parts..................................................................................................................... 37
Power Converter Parts ........................................................................................................ 37
Flashhead Parts ................................................................................................................... 37
Photocell Parts .................................................................................................................... 37
RETURN MATERIAL AUTHORIZATION (RMA) POLICY............................................. 42

vi Revision 8 – 2-12-2010 FTB 324-2
List of Figures
Figure 1-1 – TB1 Alarm Contacts ............................................................................................ 3
Figure 1-2 – 2903800 Board Configuration.............................................................................. 4
Figure 2-1 – Power Converter Mounting and Outline............................................................ 14
Figure 2-2 – Flashhead Mounting and Outline....................................................................... 15
Figure 2-3 – Photocell Mounting and Outline........................................................................ 16
Figure 2-4 – Typical System Installation................................................................................ 17
Figure 2-5 – Typical Multiple System Installation................................................................. 18
Figure 2-6 – PC 324 Power Converter Internal Wiring (110-120V)...................................... 19
Figure 2-7 – PC 324 Power Converter Internal Wiring (208-240V)...................................... 20
Figure 2-8 – Recommended Alarm Wiring............................................................................ 21
Figure 2-9 – FH 324 Internal Wiring...................................................................................... 22
Figure 4-1 – Power Converter Component Locations............................................................ 39
Figure 4-2 – Flashhead Component Layout............................................................................ 41
List of Tables
Table 1-1 – Model Configurations............................................................................................ 2
Table 1-2 – Alarm Contacts...................................................................................................... 3
Table 1-3 – Options Switch ...................................................................................................... 5
Table 1-4 – RS 485 Address..................................................................................................... 5
Table 1-5 – Marker Switch Setup............................................................................................. 6
Table 1-6 – Status LEDs........................................................................................................... 8
Table 3-1 – Transformer Test Voltages.................................................................................. 25
Table 3-2 – Function Indicators.............................................................................................. 30
Table 3-3 – Unit Troubleshooting Guide................................................................................ 34
Table 3-3 – Unit Troubleshooting Guide Continued.............................................................. 35
Table 3-4 – System Troubleshooting Guide........................................................................... 36
Table 4-1 – Power Converter Major Replaceable Parts.......................................................... 38
Table 4-2 – Flashhead Major Replaceable Parts..................................................................... 40
Table 4-3 – Retrofit Kits and Safety Support Tool................................................................. 40

FTB 324-2 Revision 8 – 2-12-2010 1
Section 1 – Introduction
and Operation
System
Each single FTB 324-2 System consists of
an FH 324-3 Flashhead, a PC 324-2 Power
Converter, a PEC 510 Photocell, and a
connecting cable from the power converter
to the flashhead.
The power converter supplies the
controlling circuitry to convert main AC
power to the required voltages for internal
operation and the discharge energy for the
flashhead. It also controls the flash rate.
The photocell senses changes in lighting
conditions from day to night and from
night to day thus signaling the power
converter to change its operation
appropriately. Also, a manual intensity
switch can override the photocell if
required.
NOTE
The Flashhead supplied with an FTB
324-2 System is an FH 324-3. If an older
flashhead is used, please call Flash
Technology for upgrades. See Table 4-3
for Retrofit Kits and Safety Support Tool.
Specifications
Physical
PC 324-2 (H x W x D, Weight)
14.00 x 16.75 x 8.44 in., 51 lbs.
355.6 x 425.5 x 214.4 mm, 23 kg.
FH 324-3 (H x Diameter, Weight)
29.5 x 18.25 in., 28 lbs.
749 x 463 mm, 12.7 kg.
PEC 510 Photocell (H x W x Depth)
3.06 x 2.58 x 1.02 in.
77.7 x 65.5 x 2.59 mm
Aerodynamic Wind Area
Flashhead 2.59 ft2, 0.241 m2
Power Converter 1.63 ft2, 0.15 m2
Environmental
Complies with FAA specifications in
AC 150/5345-43.
Performance Characteristics
Application - L-865 and L-864
Flash Intensity (nominal):
Day (White) 20,000 ± 25% ECD
Night (Red) 2,000 ± 25% ECD
White Backup 2,000 ± 25% ECD
Beam Spread Horizontal: 360º
Vertical: 5º
Flash Rate
Day (White) 40 flashes per min.
Night (Red) 20 flashes per min.
White backup 40 flashes per min.
Electrical (PC 324-2)
AC Voltage 120 or 240V, 60 Hz
110 or 230V, 50 Hz
208-240V 50 Hz
Volt-Amperes 250 peak
Day (White) 130W
Night (Red) 145W
White Backup 55W
Operation
The PC 324 Power Converter operates an
FH 324. It monitors flashhead operation
and signals an alarm if a failure occurs.
The flashhead begins to operate as soon as
power is applied. A photocell controls
intensity for the system.
In daylight, lights flash white at a rate of
40 flashes per minute (FPM) at an
intensity of 20,000 candelas. At night the
light flashes red at a rate of 20 FPM at an
intensity of 2,000 candelas.
Obstructions over 350 feet above ground
level require several interconnected PC
324 power converters (typically three)
operating the corresponding number of
flashheads. A master/slave control line
(two-wire) at terminals TB1-4 and TB1-5
at the front panel interconnects the units.
A sync pulse on the line flashes all the
lights in unison and at the same rate.

2 Revision 8 – 2-12-2010 FTB 324-2
Table 1-1 – Model Configurations
Models Lights Operation
324-2E, 324-2LT L-865 White (40 FPM)
L-864 Red (20 FPM)
L-810 Incandescent Markers
White During Daylight
Red During Night
324-2L, 324-2EL, 324-2LTL L-865 White (40 FPM)
L-864 Red (20 FPM)
L-810 Standard LED Markers
White During Daylight
Red During Night
324-2M, 324-2EM, 324-2LTM L-865 White (40 FPM)
L-864 Red (20 FPM)
L-810 6.8W LED Markers
White During Daylight
Red During Night
Note:
1. The “E” option shown above denotes the addition of the optional modem card for remote
diagnostics and monitoring.
2. The 324-2LT operates in the same manner as the 342-2 but several common features are
not available.
•The relay outputs are limited to Red Alarm, White Alarm and Marker Alarm.
Photocell failure is also monitored and will trigger either the Red or White Alarm
depending on mode.
•Eagle monitoring is not available. This includes the RS-232 used for Tech Eagle, the
RS-485 used to interface to the FTM-5000 or FTW-172, and the modem expansion
port.
•To upgrade the system to provide the additional relay contacts or to take advantage of
Eagle diagnostics, please contact Flash Technology to purchase a 2903800 timing and
trigger board.

FTB 324-2 Revision 8 – 2-12-2010 3
Alarm Contacts
3
TB1
1
2
BLK WHT
PHOTOCELL
4
5INTERCONNECT
MASTER/SLAVE
WHT
BLK
NIGHT
AUTO
DAY
INTENSITY SELECT OUTPUT ALARM CONTACTS
CONTACTS SHOWN IN
NORMAL OPERATING STATE
(NO ALARMS OR ERRORS)
ALARM WHITE
9
COM
6 8
7
10
11
12
13
14 15
16
17
18
PEC ERROR
NIGHT MODE
DAY MODE COMMON
COM RED
ALARM
DAY NIGHT
INTENSITY ERROR
Figure 1-1 – TB1 Alarm Contacts
NOTE: 324LT systems do not have relay contacts TB1-12, TB1-13, TB1-15 or TB1-16.
Table 1-2 – Alarm Contacts
Contact Indication
White Alarm Combination of Day Intensity and Photocell Errors.
Red Alarm Combination of Night Intensity and Photocell Errors.
Day Intensity Error Incorrect day intensity.
Night Intensity Error Incorrect night intensity.
Photocell Error Photocell alarm. The PEC failed to transition within 19 hours.
Day Mode Day mode operation.
Night Mode Night mode operation.
Note: 324LT systems do not have intensity error or mode contacts.
Photocell
The photocell changes resistance as ambient light changes from day to night or from night to
day. The Timing and Trigger Board (PCB1) in the master power converter then converts the
changes into the necessary circuit operation to flash the lights at the appropriate intensity for
day or night operation.

4 Revision 8 – 2-12-2010 FTB 324-2
PCB1 Timing and Trigger Board
PCB1 controls and monitors the operation of the PC 324. Status indicators and setup options
are shown below.
Figure 1-2 – 2903800 Board Configuration

FTB 324-2 Revision 8 – 2-12-2010 5
Board Configuration
The 2903800 board is programmed from
the manufacturer for operation in the PC
324. The board will be clearly marked in
the area shown in Figure 1-2.
Options Switch
The options switch allows configuration of
the RS-485 address, number of markers
and alarm isolation.
Table 1-3 – Options Switch
Switch Function
1 Alarm Isolation
(OFF – (default) Isolate)
(ON – Report Alarm)
2-4 RS-485 Address
5-7 Number of Markers
Alarm Isolation
Setting switch #1 to ON allows a red
alarm to be sent to other units over the
master/slave sync. This feature is used to
allow a slave beacon to send the rest of the
system into white backup when a failure
occurs in red night mode. The Master
beacon will read the alarm and send all
beacons into white backup. This is useful
for stack systems that have all beacons at
the same height and any failing beacon
should cause the system to go to white
backup. All units in the system must have
the switch set to ON for this feature to be
used. The default (OFF – Isolate) prevents
slave units from causing the system to go
to white back up if a red failure occurs on
the slave. Generally, a system should only
go to white back up if the top (master
beacon) fails in red night mode.
RS-485 Communication
RS-485 is used to communicate with the
FTM-5000 or FTW-17X for monitoring of
multiple beacon systems. The connections
are available on J8 in the lower right
corner. The pin assignments are shown
below:
When all switches are OFF, the RS-485 is
disabled. Once addressed, modem and
RS-232 communication will be disabled
and the RS-485 will become active. Table
1-4 defines the RS 485 address setup.
Table 1-4 – RS 485 Address
2 3 4 Address
OFF OFF OFF RS-485 Disabled
ON OFF OFF 1
OFF ON OFF 2
ON ON OFF 3
OFF OFF ON 4
Note: 324LT systems do not have RS-485 and
switches 2-4 are not used.

6 Revision 8 – 2-12-2010 FTB 324-2
Number of Markers
Switches #5-7 select the number of
markers installed. Once set, the unit will
alarm when the number of markers
detected falls below this level. Table 1-5
describes the marker switch setup.
Table 1-5 – Marker Switch Setup
5 6 7 Markers
OFF OFF OFF 0
ON OFF OFF 1
OFF ON OFF 2
ON ON OFF 3
OFF OFF ON 4
ON OFF ON 5
OFF ON ON 6

FTB 324-2 Revision 8 – 2-12-2010 7
RS-232
The RS-232 port allows programming and
troubleshooting using Tech Eagle shown
below (available for download from
www.flashtechnology.com):
Note: The Tech Eagle connection is not
available on 324LT systems.
A direct connect cable, part number
3859001, is required for connection
between the 2903800 board and the PC.
For more information, select the Help
menu in Tech Eagle.
RES PEC Jumper
The RES PEC jumper is removed by
default. The FTB 324 uses a PEC 510
resistive photocell for determining mode
transition. To use an AC photocell, short
this jumper and connect the output of the
photocell to pins 4 (AC) and 5 (Return) of
J5.
Trigger Voltage
The trigger voltage neon provides an
indication that trigger power is being
supplied to the 2903800.
Communication LEDs
The TX and RX LED’s indicate the
transmission and reception of data through
the board’s serial port via the RS-232, RS-
485 or the modem card. The DCD LED
will be active when a connection has been
made via the modem.

8 Revision 8 – 2-12-2010 FTB 324-2
Status LEDs
Table 1-6 describes the status LEDs
display alarm and mode information.
Table 1-6 – Status LEDs
LED Indication
NITE ERR Incorrect night intensity.
DAY ERR Incorrect day intensity.
PEC ALM Photocell alarm. The
PEC failed to transition
within 19 hours.
WHT ALM Combination of DAY ERR
and PEC alarm.
RED ALM Combination of NITE
ERR and PEC alarm.
MKR ALM Detected markers have
fallen below the level set
by the options switch.
FAN Not used.
SYNC The Master / Slave
Interconnect is active.
Flashes during normal
operation.
CONF A valid flash has been
detected.
DAY Day mode operation.
NITE Night mode operation.
MKRS Marker output is active.
RS-485 Setup
RS485TERM and RS485PUP are open by
default and should be shorted only on the
last 2903800 board in the series of
equipment connected to an FTM-5000 or
an FTW 17X series monitoring unit.
Internal Red Jumper
Always shorted for the FTB 324.
Optional Modem Card
The 2903801 modem board is installed in
the lower left corner of the board.
The terminal block can be removed for
easy connection of the phone wires.
The modem is included with all “E”
(Eagle) systems or can be added later as an
upgrade excluding the 324LT.

FTB 324-2 Revision 8 – 2-12-2010 9
Section 2 - Mounting, and
Installation
Unpacking
Inspect shipping cartons for signs of
damage before opening them. Check
package contents against the packing list
and inspect each item for visible damage.
Report damage claims promptly to the
freight handler.
Tools
Although no special tools are necessary,
Flash Technology suggests the following
hand tools for installation and
maintenance:
•9 or 12 inch, flat blade #2 screwdriver
•#2 Phillips® head screwdriver
•Medium slip joint pliers
•Set of combination wrenches
•Long-nose pliers
•Assorted nut driver handles: 1/4”,
5/16”, 3/8” recommended
•Analog volt-ohm meter
•Multi-purpose crimp tool
•Safety Support Tool (P/N 1905333)
Access
WARNING
Before proceeding, read the warning on
Page iii. Disconnect the primary power
before opening enclosures.
Power Converter
The base of the power converter has
mounting feet. The cover lifts off for
unrestricted access to the interior. Release
the latches that secure the cover to remove
it for internal access.
Flashhead
Pivot the lens open by disengaging two
quick-release latches. Two lanyard cables
secure the lens. The flashhead normally
contains no interlock. Disconnect primary
power to the power converter before you
open the flashhead. Wait one minute for
storage capacitors to drain down. Open the
flashhead and use a voltmeter to check that
no voltage potential exists between the red
and the blue wires on the ceramic terminal
posts.
Mounting
Power Converter
Mounting and outline dimensions for the
power converter are shown in Figure 2-1.
Flash Technology does not furnish
mounting hardware unless ordered as part
of an installation kit. Use the following
guidelines for mounting the power
converter:
Ensure that adequate space exists around
the equipment for access during
installation, maintenance and servicing.
Allow space for air flow around the power
converter.
You must use a bonding strap on a bolt
through the power converter case leg.
Connect the strap to the site grounding
system.
Flashhead
Mounting and outline dimensions for the
flashhead are shown in Figure 2-2. The
flashhead must be protected from lightning
strikes. The flashhead may be mounted to
painted or unpainted surfaces. One of the
mounting holes in the base of the
flashhead contains a built-in electrical
ground connection. Use the following
guidelines for mounting the flashhead:

10 Revision 8 – 2-12-2010 FTB 324-2
Use a lightning rod extended above the
flashhead to protect it when it is mounted
at the uppermost part of the structure.
Avoid locating a lightning rod where it
would prevent tilting the lens open or
interfere with access by maintenance or
service personnel.
You must use a bonding strap with a
flashhead mounting bolt when mounting
the flashhead to the structure, using the
mounting bolt to fasten the strap to the leg
that contains the ground connection.
Flashhead Leveling
The flashheads must be level for correct
vertical beam alignment. Two leveling
vials—aligned with the mounting feet—
are permanently attached to the flashhead
assembly. Typically, the mounting surface
for the flashhead is level and no
adjustments are required. When the
flashhead is level, bubbles in both leveling
vials are centered. For leveling, use the
following guidelines:
If adjustment is necessary, raise the
appropriate mounting foot with shims or
washers. Raising one foot by 1/16 inch
(1.6 mm) tilts the beam about 1/2 degree.
Take extreme care to ensure that all four
feet rest snugly against a firm mounting
surface before tightening the mounting
bolts. Failure to do so could result in
serious damage to the base when you
tighten the bolts.
Photocell
Mounting and outline dimensions for the
photocell are shown in Figure 2-3. The
photocell uses a male 1/2” NPT for
mounting. Use the following guidelines to
mount the photocell:
Locate the photocell where it has an
unobstructed view of the polar sky.
It must not view direct or reflected
artificial light.
The photocell may be supported directly
by electrical conduit.
Ensure that the installation is watertight.
Installation
This manual may not contain all the
information about installation wiring
required for your installation.
NOTE
If installation drawings prepared
specifically for your site disagree with
information provided in this manual, the
site installation drawings should take
precedence. Consult any site-specific
installation wiring diagram supplied with
your equipment.
Flash Technology wiring diagrams
define only minimum requirements
recommended for satisfactory
equipment operation. It is the
responsibility of the installer to comply
with all applicable electrical codes.
You can find conduit and other
distribution wiring details on electrical
installation diagrams provided by Flash
Technology or others. Installation
instructions concerning red light marker
fixtures are not part of this manual.
All communication wiring should have an
insulation rating of 300 volts minimum.
All power wiring should have an
insulation rating of 600 volts. You must
size power service wiring to satisfy the
load demand of the red light system (if
present) and the power converters. Read
the notes on the installation wiring
diagrams supplied both in this manual and
with the equipment. See Figure 2-8 for
information about wiring alarm
connections to the main panel of the power
converter.
Power Converter Wiring
Consult the installation wiring drawings.
For service wiring, consider the voltage,
length of the wire run, and the total load
(number of lights). Assume a load of 175

FTB 324-2 Revision 8 – 2-12-2010 11
volt-amperes per light, and do not permit
the line voltage to drop by more than 5%
due to wire resistance. Assume a load of
175 volt-amperes per light to determine
the slow-acting fuse ratings at the power
distribution panel. Use a value of 250 volt-
amperes per light to determine fast-acting
fuse ratings at the power distribution panel
and to select a system feeder transformer
(if used).
In multiple-unit systems, the master unit
and slave units communicate over the
“master/slave” interconnect wiring. To
insure proper communication between all
interconnected units, the power converters
must be on the same electrical phase.
Also, the “master/slave” interconnect
wires must be twisted together at a
minimum rate of 6 twists per foot. The
recommended minimum size for control
and signal conductors is #16 AWG.
Flashhead Wiring
The power converter and flashhead are
interconnected by the flashhead cable.
When Flash Technology Part Number
6340, or equivalent cable, is used, the two
may be separated by a distance up to 600
feet. Consult the factory when a greater
separation is necessary. The cable between
the power converter and flashhead requires
five conductors with 600 volts (minimum)
insulation. Two of the conductors must be
#10 AWG. The other three may be #14
AWG (minimum; for mechanical strength)
if you are cabling together individual
wires.
To ensure long-term equipment reliability,
use continuous wiring between the power
converters and their flashheads without
intervening junctions or splices.
Securing the Cable
Flash Technology recommends the
following method for securing the
flashhead cable to a skeletal structure:
1. Run the cable along one of the tower
legs and wrap two full turns of two-
inch Scotchrap™ #50 tape, or the
equivalent, around the cable and tower
leg at regular intervals of about 5 feet
(1.5 meters).
2. Wrap three full turns of one-inch
Scotchrap Filament #890 tape, or the
equivalent, over the Scotchrap #50
tape.
3. Wrap four full turns of two-inch
Scotchrap #50 tape, or the equivalent,
over the Scotchrap Filament #890 tape.
4. Perform steps 1 through 4 also directly
above and below any tower leg flanges
that the cable may cross.
Photocell Wiring
The photocell is supplied with a pigtail for
connection to wires that connect to the
power converter. It is connected to the
main panel of the power converter. It may
be located any practical distance from the
power converter. The recommended
minimum wire gauge is #16 AWG.
The photocell terminals on the slave
power converters must be jumpered from
TB1-1 to TB1-2. (An alternative jumper
may be installed on PCB1 J18-1 to J18-2.)
Also, the master unit (to which the
photocell is directly connected) must be
connected to the top flashhead.
Installation Checklist
Complete the following steps before
applying power to the lights.
1. Inspect all equipment for damage.
2. Verify the received equipment against
the packing list to ensure
completeness.
3. Power Converter Mounting. Position
and mount each unit correctly,
allowing adequate clearance for

12 Revision 8 – 2-12-2010 FTB 324-2
opening the covers. Use the following
checks:
1. Ensure that the case is mounted
upright, is water tight, and
grounded to the site grounding
system.
2. Check hardware to ensure that all
mounting hardware is tight.
3. Ensure that only the bottom of the
case has drain holes and that they
are clear.
4. Ensure that no holes are punched
or drilled on the top surface of the
case.
5. Ensure that air can flow around the
case.
6. Mount the power converter away
from radio frequency interference
(RFI).
4. Power Converter Wiring. Examine the
installation drawings and use the
following checks:
1. Check for proper incoming service
voltage.
2. Wire each unit according to the
instructions.
3. In multiple installations of three
systems, all three power converters
should be on the same breaker.
4. Check all electrical connections for
tightness.
5. Check all terminal strip
connections for tightness.
6. Ground the power converter.
7. Wires at master/slave interconnect
terminals should be daisy-chained
as a twisted pair between the
master power converter and the
slave units. The rate of twist is 6
per foot minimum. If a shielded
cable is used, ground the shield.
For example, ensure that TB1-4 is
connected to all TB1-4 connections
on all units, and TB1-5 is similarly
connected.
5. Alarm Wiring.
1. If external alarm detection circuit
responds to closed contacts, ensure
that they are wired to the contacts
on TB1 that close on alarm.
2. If external alarm detection circuit
responds to open contacts, ensure
that they are wired to the contacts
on TB1 that open on alarm.
3. Alarm wiring should be lightning
and RFI protected: shielded,
grounded shield, and in a conduit.
4. If a specific alarm is ganged
together from all power converters
as one, ensure that the wiring
follows local installation
instructions.
6. Flashhead Mounting.
1. Ensure that the flashhead lens can
be opened without striking other
objects.
2. Level and aim the flashhead.
7. Flashhead Wiring.
1. Protect the top flashhead against
lightning strikes.
2. Ground the flashhead.
3. Check the wiring of the flashhead
cable to the flashhead.
4. Secure the flashhead cable to the
tower. Support and tape the
flashhead cable to prevent its
movement by the wind.
8. Photocell.
1. Locate photocell where it views
unobstructed polar sky with no
direct or reflected artificial lighting
striking it.
2. Mount the photocell vertically to
prevent water from entering the

FTB 324-2 Revision 8 – 2-12-2010 13
unit. Ensure watertight
connections.
3. Connect the photocell to the master
power converter.
After completing all the steps listed above,
turn on the power and perform an
operational checkout from procedures in
Section 3 of this manual.

14 Revision 8 – 2-12-2010 FTB 324-2
FRONT VIEW
AS WALL MOUNTED
BOTTOM VIEW
AS WALL MOUNTED
Ø.44 INCH
(11.2)
(311) (54.9)
(356)
(425.5)
(214)
(170)
.44 INCH
Ø
(11.2)
(127)
(386)
COVER
BASEPLATE
AS WALL MOUNTED
LEFT SIDE VIEW
(127)
5.00
15.2
BOTTOM VIEW AS WALL MOUNTED
.875
(22.2)
.875
(22.2) .875
(22.2)
REAR OF CHASSIS AS WALL MOUNTED
1.06
(27)
1.06
(27)
.344
(8.74)
Figure 2-1 – Power Converter Mounting and Outline